Local woman sets house on fire

Court

A Milltown woman who admitted setting fire to her home while she and her two children were inside told police that it was an ‘accident.’

Aine Kennedy, 38, of Milltown Avenue, was remanded in custody after a judge said he needed time to consider several reports ahead of sentencing.

A neighbour rescued the woman, who had been sniffing solvents and drinking alcohol at the time, and her two sons aged 10 and eight after hearing a smoke alarm and her shouts for help in April 2013, Craigavon Crown Court was told.

Kennedy pleaded guilty to a single count of arson with intent to endanger life or being reckless as to whether the lives of her sons would be endangered.

The boys had gone to bed at about 9pm, and she had no recollection of events after 9.30pm. Four fires were discovered in the living room, kitchen and hallway.

She told police when arrestedm: “It was a total accident. I would not hurt the kids or me.”

Kennedy had a history of solvent abuse dating back 23 years, the court heard.

Remanding her in custody until Thursday, the judge said he needed more time.